Navigating Your Academic Journey: A Comprehensive Guide to Widener University Student Planning Resources

Higher education presents unique challenges and opportunities compared to high school. Understanding the terminology, academic expectations, processes, and policies can initially feel overwhelming. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the resources available to Widener University students to ensure a smooth and successful academic journey.

Understanding Academic Policies and Expectations

The Academic Catalog is a vital resource that contains essential university information regarding degree requirements, policies, and expectations. This includes details on grading, attendance, and other crucial academic regulations.

How to Access Academic Policies

Visit catalog.widener.edu and select the catalog for your entry year.
Undergraduate & Continuing Studies Students: Choose "Academic Policies & Procedures" and/or "Academic Regulations" from the left-side navigation.
Graduate Students: Select "General Information" from the left-side navigation.
For college/school-specific policies, select "Academic Schools/Departments" within your relevant catalog.

The Academic Catalog is a valuable tool for discussions with your advisor to ensure you are on track for graduation. Annual tax information, financial details, and your petition to graduate can also be found here.

Essential Digital Tools

Widener University provides access to several digital tools to support your academic activities.

Microsoft Office 365

Office365 provides access to a suite of Microsoft tools, including Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, Excel, Teams, and more.

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Zoom

Zoom enables virtual meetings for online lectures, calls with classmates, and check-ins with advisors. It offers audio and video connectivity, screen sharing, meeting recording, and AI-powered captions.

Student Handbook and Code of Conduct

The Student Handbook and Code of Conduct are essential resources that outline the university's expectations for behavior and integrity. Familiarizing yourself with these policies ensures you meet Widener's standards and contribute to a respectful campus community.

How to Access the Student Handbook

Go to catalog.widener.edu.
Select your year's handbook from the drop-down menu.

Glossary of Academic Terms

Navigating higher education involves understanding specific terminology. Widener provides a Glossary of Academic Terms to help you confidently navigate academic language.

How to Access the Academic Glossary

Go to your relevant undergraduate or graduate catalog at catalog.widener.edu.
Click "Catalog Glossary."

The glossary includes terms such as:

AU = Audit (no course credit)
CAPS = Counseling and Psychological Services
CAS = College of Arts and Sciences
CDD = Career Design and Development
CGCS = Center for Graduate & Continuing Studies
CHHS = College of Health & Human Services
CLEP = College Level Examination Program
Co-Op = Cooperative Education Program
CS = Continuing Studies
CX = Client Experience (technology support)
DPT = Doctor of Physical Therapy
ES = Exploratory Studies
FAFSA = Free Application for Federal Student Aid
FSEOG = Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant
FWS = Federal Work Study
GMAT = Graduate Management Admission Test
GPA = Grade Point Average
GPD = Graduate Program Director
GRAD = Graduate
GSE = Graduate Student Employee
I = Incomplete
IP = In Progress
IPTE = Institute for Physical Therapy Education
ITS = Information Technology Services
LDA = Last Day Attended
Lipka = Lipka Hall
LLC = Living Learning Community
MBA = Master of Business Administration
MC = Main Campus
MLA = Medical Leave Absence
MPA = Master of Public Administration
NP = Fail (In a pass/fail course)
OLLI = Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
OSS = Office of Student Success and Academic Enrichment
OTD = Doctor of Occupational Therapy
P = Pass (In a pass/fail course)
ROTC = Reserve Officers’ Training Corps
SAP = Satisfactory Academic Progress
SAS = Student Accessibility Services
SBA = School of Business Administration
SHS = Student Health Services
SLP = Speech Language Pathology
SOE = School of Engineering
SON = School of Nursing
SQ3R = Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review
TLT = Teaching and Learning Technologies
TSC = Technology Support Center
UG = Undergraduate
VLAB = Virtual Lab Environment
W = Withdrawn
XF = Failure: Academic Fraud

Addressing Academic Concerns and Changes in Status

It's normal to consider changing your major during your academic journey. Your academic advisor is an excellent resource to start these discussions. First-year and second-year students can participate in the Exploratory Studies program, which provides expert mentors to help you discover the right major and connect you with helpful resources.

For current science majors experiencing academic performance issues, the Academic Transition program can help you explore non-science majors that may be better aligned with your skills and interests, while also providing support to improve your academic performance.

The Academic Transition (AT) program is designed to assist first- and second-year students with transitioning to non-science majors and maintaining good academic standing. As an extension of the Exploratory Studies program, AT supports major exploration, academic recovery, and academic persistence.

Students not in good academic standing (GPA less than 2.0) and those who have completed three or fewer semesters are typically candidates for this program. Juniors or seniors are encouraged to schedule a meeting with an academic advisor to discuss their options.

To withdraw from a class, schedule an appointment with your academic advisor or the Office of Student Success and Academic Enrichment.

Widener University prioritizes your health and wellbeing, offering resources such as Student Health Services and Counseling & Psychological Services. Partnerships like TELUS Health provide confidential, 24/7 virtual counseling services for Chester campus students.

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Quiet study spots are available in academic buildings, the University Center, Wolfgram Library, and the Office of Student Success and Academic Enrichment.

Understanding Academic Warning

If you've received an academic warning, it means your GPA does not meet the minimum requirement for your completed semester hours. It's crucial to seek academic advising, coaching, and tutoring support. Connect with your academic advisor and associate dean to discuss specific strategies and academic plans, which may include reducing your course load, withdrawing from extracurricular activities, and/or evaluating your program of study.

First- and second-year science majors can consider seeking information about Widener's Academic Transition program to aid in transitioning into a non-science program.

For specific information about academic standing, review your entry year's academic catalog and select "Academic Policies and Procedures" from the left-side navigation. Every student has one opportunity to appeal a dismissal.

If you are unable to attend class due to illness, contact your professor. If you encounter issues with a classmate or instructor, attempt to resolve it directly. If needed, contact the Office of Student Success and Academic Enrichment for guidance.

Academic Support Resources

Widener University offers various academic support resources to help you succeed.

Tutoring Services

Trained student tutors provide personalized, one-on-one support and walk-in sessions to help you excel in your course material.

Scheduled Peer-to-Peer Tutoring: Assigned an individual tutor to work with as needed.
Walk-In Hours: Tutors available weekly at designated times; no appointments required.

To begin working with a tutor, complete the tutor request form.

Academic Coaching

Academic coaching empowers you to enrich your Widener experience. Partner with an academic coach to develop a plan for achieving your academic goals and identify personal barriers that may be impacting your success. An initial academic coaching conversation typically lasts between 30-60 minutes, with follow-up conversations lasting 30 minutes.

Student Technology Support

Explore frequently asked questions for information about technology support at Widener University. It is highly recommended to make appointments at the Writing Center and with your Librarian Liaison.

The Writing Center provides faculty members that can help you brainstorm ideas, get organized, and edit your papers. A dedicated librarian is assigned to support every degree program, helping you navigate how to find the most up-to-date and relevant information for your research.

Course Registration and Student Planning

Class schedules can be found through your self-service portal through myWidener. Student Planning allows you to search and register for courses, find your annual tax and financial information, and petition to graduate. Your future courses are mapped out to match your curriculum ladder, helping you graduate on time. Consult with your academic advisor to make any changes.

Course Registration Timeline

First-year students: Schedule classes during Summer Orientation.
First-year pre-advising day for spring registration: October.
Spring registration: Begins in November.
Fall registration: Begins in April.

Finding Your Requirements

Every degree program includes a unique curriculum of required courses, and many include specific curriculum sequences. Undergraduate students must also complete Foundation & Transformation general education coursework.

To see what classes you have left to take, view your academic progress in student planning by clicking on the checklist icon. All remaining requirements will be shown in red as "Not Started." To view courses that will fulfill the requirement, click the Search button to be taken to the course catalog.

To learn more about Foundations & Transformations general education requirements, review the Academic Catalog for the year you started your Widener journey and select either "General Education" or "Academic Policies."

Adding Courses to Your Plan

Log into Student Planning.
Click "Plan Your Degree & Register for Classes."
Address any holds on your account.
Search for classes by typing the course name or number in the search bar. For a list of all classes offered by subject, click the graduate cap icon on the left-side navigation and select Course Catalog.

Empowering Your Academic Journey

Widener University encourages exploration as you chart your unique path, whether through your chosen major, interdisciplinary programs, or hands-on learning opportunities. With dedicated advisors, robust resources, and access to cutting-edge facilities, you’ll find everything you need to thrive academically and prepare for a successful future.

Personalized Academic Pathway

Shape your academic journey to match your goals. Whether you have a clear vision or want to explore options through our Exploratory Studies program, we’ll help you find pathways that align with your interests, strengths, and aspirations.

Supporting Your Success

Personalized advising ensures you have a clear roadmap to reach your goals. Tutoring support offers individualized assistance to boost your confidence and understanding. The Office of Student Success and Academic Enrichment helps you navigate your college experience through academic coaching, goal setting, and tutoring.

Success Blog

The Success Blog offers articles such as:

Learning to Advocate for Yourself in College
Unlock the Full Potential of Your Summer Break
Overcoming Procrastination: A Guide to Staying Motivated

Student Perspectives

Students share their transformative experiences at Widener:

Jessica Mereshensky (Class of 2024, Social Work): Opportunities to speak at symposiums and conferences enhance networking and connections.
Janaeyah Reid (Class of 2024, Master of Social Work): The program teaches application of theories and methods.
Michael Fehrle (Class of 2022, Management): Faculty and staff are dedicated to student success.
Cloë Di Flumeri (Class of 2023, Political science, English, and international relations): Interdisciplinary majors allow exploration of passions.
Diamond Schuler Douyon (Class of 2018, Communication Studies): Faculty provide immediate support and guidance.

Addressing Student Concerns

For immediate assistance or emergencies, contact Campus Safety at 610-499-4200 or call 911. The CARE Team is a network of campus community members focused on caring, prevention, and early intervention for students experiencing distress.

Everyday Tools and Resources

Widener provides access to essential tools and resources:

My Academics: Academic support and guidance, including advising and tutoring.
My Experience: Resources on study away, student research, degree options, internships, and co-ops.
My Wellbeing: Resources for mental, physical, spiritual, and financial wellness.
My Career: Career Design and Development Office for networking, career exploration, and resume building.

Campus Engagement

There are numerous clubs and organizations to help you pursue your passions, network, and have fun!

Advising, Coaching, Tutoring, & PRIDE Success

Academic Advising with Faculty

Academic faculty advisors help you navigate your academic journey, translating your goals and interests into a successful educational experience. They assist with understanding academic requirements, policies, and procedures, and guide you in course selection.

Academic Coaching with a Trained Professional

Academic coaching conversations empower you to further enrich your Widener experience. Partner with an academic coach to develop a plan that establishes a path to achieving your academic goal and identify personal barriers.

Tutoring with a Qualified Student Mentor

Trained student tutors provide personalized, one-on-one support and walk-in sessions to help you excel in your course material.

PRIDE Success Program for Academic Recovery

The PRIDE Success program supports students with a GPA of 2.0 or below by providing guidance, goal-setting strategies, and academic resources to help them regain momentum.

Navigating the Transition from High School to College

College offers more independence, freedom, and responsibility than high school. College courses are more demanding, and it's up to you to manage your time and responsibilities.

Key Differences: High School vs. College Academics

Level of independence: College expects more self-responsibility.
Coursework and assignments: College assignments are longer and require deeper critical thinking.
Class schedule: College classes may be held less frequently with gaps in between.
Grading: College grades are based on major assignments and exams.
Time management: College students are responsible for balancing coursework with extracurricular activities.

Making the Most of Your Classroom Experience

Go to class on time.
Come to class prepared.
Participate in class.
Get to know your professors.
Show respect to everyone.

Academic Integrity

Widener University strongly supports the concept of academic integrity and expects students to be honest in all academic endeavors.

Staying Organized

Use a planner.
Break down large assignments.
Balance time-sensitive assignments with larger projects.
Audit how you spend your time.

Communicating Respectfully

Communicate respectfully and effectively to maintain positive relationships.

Pay attention to what your peers are saying.
Be respectful of different opinions and perspectives.
Choose the right communication tools.

Wolfgram Library Resources

Wolfgram Library is an academic hub featuring research databases, quiet study spaces, interlibrary loan, consultations with librarians, laptop loans, and streaming videos.

Asking Questions

Learning to feel comfortable asking questions is a key aspect of personal growth.

Ask questions in class.
Discuss challenging assignments with professors.

Planning Ahead

Plan for study abroad, research, community service, and internships to fuel your academic and professional growth.

Foundations & Transformations: Gen Ed

Widener’s general education Foundation & Transformations curriculum begins with ASC 101: Thinking Through, in which you'll choose from dozens of complex questions to explore.

Steps to Academic Success

Know Your Academic Requirements: Use the Academic Catalog and Student Planning to understand degree requirements.
Explore Classes & Build a Plan: Use Student Planning to map out your semester.
Address Any Holds or Status Issues: Resolve holds in Student Planning before registering.
Customize Your Academic Journey: Talk to your advisor about internships, study abroad, and other opportunities.
Access Support: Utilize resources for academic, personal, and career success.

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